420 Temple Leader Seeks Religious Protection
Jury selection is scheduled to begin tomorrow in the Los Angeles trial of a minister of a Hollywood church that uses marijuana during services.
The Reverend Craig X Rubin, leader of the 420 Temple, argued in a court hearing that marijuana is a religious sacrament and its usage in his church is protected under federal law. But the judge ruled that Rubin could not use the federal law as a defense because he faces only state charges.
Rubin, who is representing himself, told the judge he would file a writ challenging the ruling and would consider a plea deal if it stands. Rubin was arrested last fall and freed after posting $20,000 bail. He faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of possessing marijuana for sale.
